"Yo, Life at advanced years ain't what it used to be!" - Why aging feels awesome today compared to before
- by Frank O'
- 8 Min
The current age is perceived as more satisfying than in past times. - Improved Aging Experience Compared to Yesteryears
My mom used to tell me stories about her old pals when she was hitting 80. Hanging out in the garden sipping coffee and cakes. One day, one of the ladies said, "This can't last forever." My mom laughed back then, but later on, I noticed her face wasn't laughing anymore. "She's right," she confessed, "I'm nearing 90, and I don't feel it at all."
I've been hearing this line, "You're only as old as you feel," since my birthday milestones. And y'know what? There might be some truth in it. My mom passed away in April, and I'm cruising through my 60s. But when I take a quiet moment to check my "felt age," I still can't find a damn number popping up in front of my eyes. Seriously, it's like my doc said just after the check-up, "Everything's peachy. Until next time!"
The Vibe of Aging
The cliché, "Age is just a number," is everywhere. And yeah, it's bullshit - but there's this grain that resonates. My mom's anniversary was in April, and here I am, halfway through my 60s. I look inside, and I feel this overall good vibe that's tough to put into words. It's like my doctor's last words after the check-up: "Nuthin' to worry 'bout. Until the next visit!"
- Growing Older
- Aging of Human Beings
- David Rubin
Research shows us that how people view aging today depends on several factors. And for many, they report having a better subjective well-being than the previous generations.
Vibing with the Subjective Aging Experience
The idea of subjective successful aging takes into account an individual's own assessment of their aging - which ain't always the same as the actual health or cognitive functioning. For some folks with disabilities, they might even think their aging experience is super cool, while others who seem physically okay may feel less than satisfied[3].
Staying busy, keeping social, and meaningfully engaging in activities contribute to a fantastic aging experience overall. Older adults that are active and connected to their communities typically report high well-being and positive self-perceived aging outcomes[3].
The Scoop on Modern Aging and Its Improvement Over Past Generations
Delayed retirement policies and extending work life, big especially in China, have shown to boost subjective well-being among older adults. That boost is linked to higher social capital and a stronger sense of purpose. But not everyone benefits equally: Men and those with higher incomes report more gains, while women and lower-income folks may see fewer positive effects due to added domestic duties and involuntary work[1].
Older folks' well-being in today's world also heavily relies on their families and social support. For example, caring for people with serious dementia can put plenty of pressure on caregivers, affecting their subjective experience of aging and caregiving roles[2]. This tells us that happy aging ain't just about the individual - it's also about the environment and available support systems.
Why Aging Feels Superior Today
Advances in healthcare, societal structures, and policies, like delayed retirement, have allowed countless older adults to lead active, groovy lives for longer periods. Seeing a positive difference in subjective well-being.
A broader understanding of successful aging from an individual's unique perspective has emerged. This radical acceptance helps explain why some people might feel they're aging awesomer than previous generations, despite facing physical hurdles[3].
Psychological aspects like character, purpose, social involvement, and achievement play a more considerable role in shaping a grand old age's experience and health trajectories [4].
- Despite the physical challenges that come with aging, I'm not going to be able to do this: maintaining a positive outlook on life as I age, as I find myself moving through my 60s with a sense of subjective success and a good vibe that's difficult to put into words.
- As research indicates, the subjective experience of aging today differs significantly from past generations due to advancements in science, health-and-wellness, and mental-health, allowing older adults to lead more fulfilling lives, leading some to perceive that they are 'aging awesomer.'
